The cost of landscaping bark in Utah falls within the national average of $220, although it could be more or less expensive this year depending on some factors.
Homeowners could spend as low as $160 up to $270 for the installation of mulch alone. The type of bark that you plan to use, cost of labor and the size of your garden will be the other factors to consider for determining the actual price. You may want to hire a professional for applying mulch and ask for the most suitable choice for your garden.
Mulch Price by Type
There are two types of mulch comprising organic and inorganic variants, where price does not have a significant difference. Organic mulch is affordable and may even be sourced from your own yard, although these are not as effective as inorganic types for preventing pests.
Some types of organic mulch include pine bark, which cost $10 to $12 per cubic feet. It allows better moisture absorption and retention for plants, but keep in mind that this is not a good choice for rainy and windy weather since it can be blown away easily. Wood chips cost the same and can be bought from your local home depot. You need to pay more attention when using these for your lawn because it can attract more insects.
On the other hand, inorganic mulch such as rubber is good for keeping bugs and fungus from your plants. You could buy two cubic feet of it for at least $10. Landscape cloth and rocks are two options for preventing weed growth with prices costing at least $20 for several rolls and $10 for a 50-pound bag, respectively.
Where to Use Mulch
There is no one-size-fits-all approach when using mulch, so you should expect to have different variants for different parts of the garden. Bark chips are good for garden beds, around tree roots and other places where you do not have to do a lot of digging. You should avoid using landscaping bark around young plants since it can be toxic.
Straw and hay should be placed on vegetable gardens to prevent mud and plant diseases. You only have to replace it once every year, so this is a budget-friendly choice. You can use shredded leaves anywhere in the garden except around flowerbeds, as most insects are found near decaying leaves. When in doubt, consult a landscaping professional about the right kind of mulch.
Expert advice will also be helpful in knowing just how much mulch you need for your lawn. Most suppliers sell mulch by bag or in bulk. A bag of mulch may cover around two cubic feet of garden space while buying in bulk covers around two cubic yards. If you need a lot yet your car cannot fit everything, a delivery service may cost between $350 and $680.
The best time to apply mulch on your garden is usually during spring or when the soil is warm, but not overly hot. Choose the type of mulch that does not rot quickly, and complements the style of your landscaping.
